Who is to blame for the response to Hurricane Katrina?
The very first paragraph on the "Emergencies and Disasters" page of the Department of Homeland Security's official website provides clear proof that this central government department bears full responsibility for the failure to prepare for and respond to Hurricane Katrina. This department was created by President Bush, supposedly as part of the "war on terror".
No wonder Bush and his allies say this is not the time to play the "blame game", while at the same time blaming officials at state level. But there is no need for any "blame game", whether Bush wants one or not, because it is already perfectly clear exactly who is to blame:-
"In the event of a terrorist attack, natural disaster or other large-scale emergency, the Department of Homeland Security will assume primary responsibility on March 1st for ensuring that emergency response professionals are prepared for any situation. This will entail providing a coordinated, comprehensive federal response to any large-scale crisis and mounting a swift and effective recovery effort. ..."
SOURCE
Department of Homeland Security - Emergencies and Disasters
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/theme_home2.jsp